Blanc de Noirs and Blanc de Blancs may look similar in the glass, but they offer very different profiles. Discover what defines a 100% Pinot Noir Champagne and how best to enjoy it.
In brief
- Blanc de Noirs Champagne is made exclusively from black-skinned grapes: Pinot Noir and/or Meunier.
- Unlike Blanc de Blancs, which is most commonly made from Chardonnay, it generally offers greater depth, structure and richness on the palate.
- Champagne Philippe Fourrier makes a 100% Pinot Noir Blanc de Noirs from the Côte des Bar terroir.
What is Blanc de Noirs Champagne?
Blanc de Noirs is a white Champagne made exclusively from black-skinned grapes, principally Pinot Noir and Meunier. Although their skins are dark, the juice itself is pale. Gentle pressing and the rapid separation of juice from skins prevent colour from being extracted. The result is a golden Champagne, often deeper in colour than a Blanc de Blancs, with a broader and more structured palate.
Blanc de Noirs vs Blanc de Blancs: what is the difference?
The distinction lies primarily in the grape varieties used:
| Criterion | Blanc de Noirs | Blanc de Blancs |
|---|---|---|
| Grape varieties | Pinot Noir and/or Meunier | Most commonly Chardonnay |
| Appearance | Deep gold, sometimes with copper highlights | Pale gold, sometimes with green highlights |
| Palate | Broad, structured and generous | Fresh, taut and mineral |
| Typical aromas | Red fruit, ripe fruit and spice | White flowers, citrus fruit and floral notes |
Pinot Noir, the defining grape of the Côte des Bar
Pinot Noir thrives on the clay-limestone slopes of the Côte des Bar. It is by far the dominant grape variety in the Aube vineyards, including those of Champagne Philippe Fourrier in Baroville, where it accounts for most of the 25 hectares cultivated by the family since 1847.
What does Blanc de Noirs taste like?
Blanc de Noirs is known for its depth and structure. Red-fruit and ripe-fruit aromas are often accompanied by a subtle spicy character. It is typically fuller-bodied than the more mineral and linear style associated with Blanc de Blancs.
What food pairs well with Blanc de Noirs Champagne?
Its richness makes it a natural partner for flavourful dishes such as game, charcuterie, poultry in sauce and mature cheeses. It also has enough presence to be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif.
Philippe Fourrier Blanc de Noirs: 100% Pinot Noir
Champagne Philippe Fourrier makes its 100% Pinot Noir Blanc de Noirs from grapes grown in the family vineyards in Baroville. This single-varietal cuvée fully expresses the character of Pinot Noir from the Côte des Bar. Discover it alongside the rest of our cuvées in our Champagne collection, or contact us to arrange a tasting at the estate.
Frequently asked questions
What is Blanc de Noirs Champagne?
It is a white Champagne made exclusively from black-skinned grapes, principally Pinot Noir and/or Meunier. The juice remains pale because it is separated from the skins quickly during pressing.
What is the difference between Blanc de Noirs and Blanc de Blancs?
Blanc de Noirs is made from black-skinned grapes such as Pinot Noir and Meunier and generally offers greater structure and richness. Blanc de Blancs is most commonly made from Chardonnay and is usually fresher, more linear and more mineral.
When should you drink Blanc de Noirs Champagne?
Its generous structure makes it an excellent choice at the table with game, charcuterie, poultry or mature cheeses. It can also be served as an aperitif.
